Caves in Quintana Roo were created by a number of geological processes. The primary mechanism is the dissolution of limestone by water, as described earlier. This occurs preferentially along pre-existing faults in the limestone and creates voids (cave passages) within the rock. The ceiling over these voids is supported by the surrounding limestone and the groundwater. When voids become too large, or when groundwater levels are low, the ceiling may collapse partially or completely, creating underground air domes or cenotes.

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